The writers strike is over, folks, which means that it's only a matter of time before your favorite shows go back to production to churn out new episodes. However, there'll still be some more waiting to do, as the production process is often an arduous and time-consuming activity.

“We would need time to ramp up, write the episodes, get the episodes ready to go and then shoot them,” Russ Friend, a writer for FOX's hit medical drama House, told TV Guide on Saturday from the Shrine Auditorium, where the WGA's tentative deal with AMPTP was formally announced. “A typical episode takes about nine days, so basically almost two weeks. And then you have to post[-produce] it, which takes another few weeks....”

Friend, who also serves as a producer on House, added that it could take around five to eight weeks before the show can return to the screen with new episodes.

The last two remaining pre-strike episodes of House aired early this month. One of the episodes, “Frozen,” filled the coveted post-Superbowl hour on Sunday, February 3. It generated record-setting numbers for the network, becoming the show's highest-rated episode ever across all demographics. It was also the highest-rated scripted program on any network in two years among adults 18-49 and total viewers, and FOX's highest-rated scripted show broadcast in more than 10 years in the key adult demo and in 11 years in total viewers.

Those who weren't able to catch “Frozen” can tune in this Friday night, as the network is slated to fill in that night's 9-10pm time slot with an encore presentation of the installment. In addition, FOX will continue airing repeats of House every Friday night in the same hour until April 18.

“Frozen” features Academy Award-winning actress Mira Sorvino as a psychiatrist trapped at the South Pole who enlists the help of Dr. House (Hugh Laurie), who tries to diagnose and treat her using only a webcam.